Things to do in Muri in December

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Overview

December is a less popular time to visit Muri. The weather is usually pleasantly warm with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 77—79°F (25—26°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Muri during this time. Some of our top recommendations: take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Cook Islands dishes, go on a whale-watching tour, visit the Punanga Nui Market, and more!

Muri has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your December trip to Muri. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to December. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Muri in December. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout December, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Best events and things to do in Muri in December

Top experiences in December
Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Cook Islands dishes
Cook Islands cuisine is a delicious blend of Polynesian and international flavors, and taking a cooking class is a fun and educational way to learn about the local food culture. In December, many cooking classes focus on traditional Christmas dishes and festive treats, giving you the chance to create your own holiday feast. You'll have the opportunity to work with fresh, local ingredients and learn cooking techniques from experienced chefs, all while enjoying the company of fellow food enthusiasts. Plus, you'll get to taste your creations at the end of the class, making it a rewarding and tasty experience
Go on a whale-watching tour
December is the peak of the humpback whale season in the Cook Islands, making it the perfect time to go on a whale-watching tour. These majestic creatures migrate to the warm waters of Rarotonga to breed and give birth, providing a rare opportunity to see them up close in their natural habitat. Many local operators offer guided tours that take you out on the water to search for whales, giving you the chance to witness their impressive displays of breaching and tail slapping. It's an unforgettable experience that allows you to connect with the incredible wildlife of the Cook Islands.
Visit the Punanga Nui Market
The Punanga Nui Market is a bustling hub of activity in Avarua, the capital of Rarotonga. Open on Saturday mornings, this vibrant market is the perfect place to immerse yourself in local culture and pick up unique souvenirs. In December, the market is filled with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional Cook Islands food, making it a great opportunity to sample local delicacies and support local artisans. You can also enjoy live music and entertainment while you browse the stalls, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere that captures the spirit of the Cook Islands.
Go snorkeling in Muri Lagoon
Muri Lagoon is a stunningly beautiful spot for snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life. In December, the lagoon is teeming with colorful fish, making it the perfect time to explore the underwater world. You can rent snorkeling gear from one of the local operators and spend hours swimming among the coral reefs, spotting tropical fish, and maybe even encountering a sea turtle or two. Whether you're an experienced snorkeler or a beginner, Muri Lagoon offers an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves the ocean.
Hike to the top of Te Rua Manga (The Needle)
Te Rua Manga, also known as The Needle, is a distinctive rock formation that rises 413 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking views of Rarotonga. The hike to the top is challenging but rewarding, with lush rainforest, stunning vistas, and the chance to see native flora and fauna along the way. In December, the weather is warm and sunny, making it an ideal time to tackle this adventure. Once you reach the summit, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the island and the surrounding ocean, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Take a sunset cruise on a traditional vaka
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Rarotonga in December is by taking a sunset cruise on a traditional vaka, or Polynesian canoe. These cruises offer a unique opportunity to see the island from a different perspective, as you sail along the coastline and watch the sun dip below the horizon. Many sunset cruises also include a traditional Cook Islands feast, complete with local dishes and entertainment. It's a magical way to spend an evening and create lasting memories of your trip to the Cook Islands.
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Holidays in Muri in December
December
  • Christmas Day (December 25)
  • Boxing Day (December 26)
  • Christmas Day (December 25)
  • Boxing Day (December 26)
Other notable holidays
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Weather in Muri in December

Temperatures on an average day in Muri in December

The average temperature in Muri in December for a typical day ranges from a high of 79°F (26°C) to a low of 77°F (25°C). Some would describe it as pleasantly warm with a gentle breeze.

For comparison, the hottest month in Muri, March, has days with highs of 81°F (27°C) and lows of 79°F (26°C). The coldest month, August has days with highs of 74°F (24°C) and lows of 73°F (23°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Muri in December based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in December
79°F
highs
77°F
lows

General weather summary

Pleasantly warm with a gentle breeze
Feels like
35%
Chance of rain
0.205 in
Amount
14.9 mph
Wind speed
79%
Humidity
13.4 hrs
Daylight length
5:51 AM
Sunrise
7:15 PM
Sunset
25%
Cloud cover
Sleeveless shirt
What to wear
What to wear in December
With an average high of 79°F (26°C) and a low of 77°F (25°C), it generally feels pleasantly warm with a gentle breeze. There might also be a small chance of rain. With that in mind, most people would dress in something very light like a sleeveless shirt
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Best attractions for Muri in December

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Muri has to offer for travelers in December, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Muri that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Muri for December.
Te Vara Nui Village
1. Te Vara Nui Village
4.6
(238)
Visitor Centers
Maori cultural site with night performances on floating stages, waterfall gardens & a buffet.
Captain Tamas Lagoon Cruizes
2. Captain Tamas Lagoon Cruizes
4.9
(497)
Tour operator
Tours
Koka Lagoon Cruises
3. Koka Lagoon Cruises
4.9
(280)
Tour operator
Tours
Raro Buggy Tours
4. Raro Buggy Tours
4.6
(169)
Outdoor activity organiser
Tours
Te Vara Nui Village
5. Te Vara Nui Village
4.6
(238)
Visitor Centers
Maori cultural site with night performances on floating stages, waterfall gardens & a buffet.
Muri Beach Club Hotel Rarotonga
6. Muri Beach Club Hotel Rarotonga
4.6
(200)
Hotel
Lodging
Unfussy rooms with balconies in an adults-only beachfront resort with an outdoor pool, bar & dining.
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